Biking over the West Hills used to intimidate me. The confusing winding roads, the fear of bad infrastructure, and of course, the hills themselves. But last Monday I gave it a try and discovered, to my surprise, well-signed streets with decent bike lanes, gentle climbs, and gorgeous views.

Don’t take my word for it – see for yourself!

Don’t you wish this was your commute? Source: Lisa Frank, 4/7/14.

I began my ride with a leisurely trip on the Fanno Creek Greenway from a meeting at the Beaverton Library to another in Tigard. The Fanno Creek Greenway’s helpful signs and paths connecting to neighborhoods and nearby streets help you get where you need to go, or just keep track of distances on a weekend jog.

Source: Lisa Frank, 4/7/14.

Southwest’s tree-lined boulevards provide a shady space to ride. You can cover long distances without having to stop for lights or worry about intersections and turning vehicles, making the trip stress-free.

Source: Lisa Frank, 4/7/14.

Once you reach Terwilliger Boulevard, the views are incredible: Coast past the historic Chart House restaurant and totem pole at Elk Point, take in Mount Hood and the Willamette River, think about bringing your kids next time for a stop at a scenic playground, and finally spot Portland’s downtown ahead of you as you roll downhill past OHSU.

Mt Hood from Terwilliger Blvd. Source: Lisa Frank, 4/7/14.

Playground on Terwilliger Blvd. Source: Lisa Frank, 4/7/14.

Downtown Portland from Terwilliger Blvd. Source: Lisa Frank, 4/7/14

After a leisurely trip, I arrived in downtown Portland happy and eager to ride the whole route again, ballet flats and all!